• Keep an eye on the older people you care about this Christmas

    Lynn Openshaw Interactive Lounge with Alan Hickey‘Keep an eye on the older people you care about this Christmas’ was the theme for Resthaven’s appearance on FiveAA’s Interactive Lounge on 9 November.

    Lynn Openshaw, Manager Service Development, spoke with Alan Hickey, and shared some helpful and timely advice with listeners and callers.

    ‘I spoke about how in the lead up to Christmas, some people may be seeking additional assistance with tasks such as Christmas shopping, or preparing their homes for guests to visit. There are many flexible services available that Resthaven can tailor for every individual’s preferences.’

    ‘Another point I made was that this is the time of year when relatives and friends come together, so it is a great opportunity to talk with older family members about how they are going at home. This can include taking the time to observe whether the person is still living well in their home. Things to look out for include taking note of how they are coping with everyday tasks, if their mobility, hearing and vision is still good, or if there has been visible weight loss.’

    ‘If this is the case, it is important to ask the person how they feel about their current circumstances. Discuss respectfully what you have observed, and ask if they feel these things are impacting on their quality of life.’

    ‘Whilst always a difficult subject to raise, this is a good time for families to have those important conversations about aged care support, health and services, and future plans, while everyone is together.’

    ‘If support is required, Resthaven can assist, providing appropriate services—either private or subsidised. Resthaven’s teams provide services seven days a week, throughout the year.’

    ‘Resthaven is here to help. Contact us on 1300 13 66 33, or visit Agedcare Alternatives at 1/445 Fullarton Road, Highgate—Resthaven’s free and independent information service, or call them on 8271 3888.’

    Sue Springbett, Manager of Accommodation Enquiries, and Melanie Howard, Senior Manager of Community Services, were in the interactive lounge to answer confidential questions from callers.

    Resthaven works together with older people and their carers throughout metropolitan Adelaide, the Adelaide Hills, Murraylands, Fleurieu, Barossa, Riverland and Limestone Coast of South Australia.